The saying “New Year, New Me” always felt like a quick fix, a promise of transformation that fades as quickly as the excitement of January 1st. It’s not about becoming a new person but about building a better version of yourself—one choice, one habit, and one mindset shift at a time. If 2024 taught me anything, it’s this: don’t quit before you start. Even the smallest step forward beats standing still.
The magnitude of our goals can be so overwhelming sometimes that we imagine perfection from the outset—a flawless diet, a strict fitness routine, a consistent work schedule—and the moment we falter, we give up. However, nothing happens without action, and action doesn’t require perfection.
If showing up means being messy, then I’m trading the pursuit of perfection for progress. Following on the momentum of the last year, I’m committed to growth, and this is how I plan to reach the finish line. I definitely won’t be making any drastic changes but rather small intentional choices that align with my fitness goals for 2025.
While reading scripture nourishes our spirit, the Bible also teaches that we should honor our bodies by taking care of our physical health. Moving your body is about so much more than just fitness or aesthetics; it’s a form of stewardship. So, how do we bridge the gap?
Swapping Out Processed Foods for Whole Foods
The answer lies in creating a sustainable rhythm. Your body is wonderful, complex, and deserving of nourishment that sustains its design. Saying goodbye to processed, sugary, and fatty foods to embrace nutrient-rich, wholesome options isn’t about restriction; it’s about honoring your body with the fuel it truly deserves.
I’m definitely a dessert kind of girl, but that doesn’t mean I need to have one after every meal. Think fresh vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. This shift isn’t just about fitness—it’s an opportunity to experiment, like finally taking that cooking class you’ve been considering. Fuel your body wisely and feel the difference in your energy, clarity, and vitality.
Ditching Running for Cardio I Love
After some reflection, I realized that unless it’s a sprint, I don’t enjoy running. Social media often glorifies running as the ultimate cardio, but it’s just not for me—and that’s okay. Even though I’m in my 30s and single, I have no desire to join a run club or push myself to love something that doesn’t spark joy.
Cardio doesn’t have to mean pounding the pavement—it can be cycling, dancing, swimming, or even brisk walks. The key is finding something you enjoy so that it becomes a sustainable activity, not something you have to endure.
Embracing Progressions Without Shame
Starting over is hard, but progressions are powerful. Whether it’s mastering a push-up, attempting a handstand, or building core strength, laying a solid foundation is crucial. By leaning into progressions and gradually increasing the difficulty, you give yourself the grace to grow stronger one step at a time.
Fitness is a journey, so embrace every stage of the process. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, and there’s value in becoming a student of the process rather than fixating solely on the destination.
Focusing on Mobility for Longevity
Mobility and stretching are often overlooked aspects of fitness, yet they are essential for joint health, injury prevention, and overall athletic performance. In my blog, “5 Daily Practices for Better Mobility,” I explore how small daily actions can lead to better improvements.
As someone with a desk job, mobility practices are a necessary part of my fitness routine. Trust me, a few minutes a day can transform how your body feels and moves.
Allowing for Sufficient Rest and Recovery
Recovery is just as important as the workouts themselves. For all the women who love lifting heavy or pushing through intense workouts, remember to prioritize rest days. They give your body the time it needs to repair and grow stronger.
Listen to your body, incorporate active recovery like gentle stretching, and be mindful not to overtrain. Recovery isn’t a setback—it’s an essential step toward building a healthier, stronger version of yourself. My blog, “Can I Start My Fitness Journey in My 30s?” explores how small adjustments, like prioritizing rest, can make all the difference.
2025 is a year to grow, to honor the body God has given you, and to embrace every opportunity to become better. If you’re ready, join me on this journey. One habit, one choice, one mindset shift at a time—let’s take that step together. What’s one change you’ll commit to this year? Share your goal in the comments, and let’s encourage one another!
